A man is fighting for his life in hospital after a double stabbing during an alleged argument between two groups in Bournemouth town centre.
The 21-year-old was stabbed in the stomach and head at just before 3am on Sunday, according to Dorset Police.
A woman, also 21, who was not known to either group, was stabbed in her lower body before being taken to hospital with non life-threatening injuries.
Officers arrested a 20-year-old local man close to the incident in Old Christchurch Road on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and affray, and are holding him in custody.
He also sustained an injury to his hand and has been taken to hospital for treatment.
A second suspect, said to be wearing an orange T-shirt and possibly carrying a skateboard, is being sought in connection with the stabbings.
Detective Inspector Darren Moores, of Bournemouth CID, said: ‘An investigation into this incident is ongoing to establish exactly what happened. I would urge anyone who witnessed it or filmed any of the incident on their mobile phone to please contact Dorset police.
‘As part of our early enquiries, we are looking for an outstanding suspect who was said to be wearing an orange T-shirt and possibly carrying a skateboard. I would ask anyone who knows who this is or where he may be to please get in touch.
‘I understand this incident will be of concern to members of the public and local businesses and officers from the local neighbourhood policing team will be carrying out high-visibility patrols in the area over the coming days and can be approached with any information or concerns.’
A statement from Dorset Police read: ‘At 2.52am on Sunday 18 June 2023 officers were called to reports of a stabbing in Old Christchurch Road between Fresco and Bet Fred following an alleged altercation between two groups of men, who are not known to each other.
‘Officers and the ambulance service attended and discovered a 21-year-old man had sustained stab wounds to his stomach and head. He was taken to hospital for treatment for injuries that are described as serious and life changing. His family has been informed.’
It continued: ‘A 20-year-old local man was arrested nearby on suspicion of grievous bodily harm and affray and remains in custody. He also sustained an injury to his hand and has been taken to hospital for treatment.
‘Two scenes are in place in Old Christchurch Road and Albert Road while crime scene investigators carry out their examinations.’
